-- ensuring implementation of the constitutional principle of separation of powers, improving the lawmaking process, and increasing the oversight functions of the legislature, including through the establishment of a freely elected and multi-party bicameral legislature; -- further improving the judicial and legal system and adopting additional measures to ensure the independence of the courts as a fully empowered, independent branch of government; and -- further improving the activities of executive and administrative agencies and increasing public oversight of their activities. The forms of cooperation in this area should be determined within the framework of individual programs and agreements. II. SECURITY COOPERATION IN THE MILITARY AND MILITARY-TECHNICAL FIELD Article 2.1 Security Issues Recognizing that the security of states in the region is key to the development, prosperity, and stability of Central Asia, and developing a qualitatively new, long-term relationship, the United States affirms that it would regard with grave concern any external threat to the security and territorial integrity of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Were this to occur, the United States will consult with the Republic of Uzbekistan on an urgent basis to develop and implement an appropriate response in accordance with U.S. Constitutional procedures. For its part, the Republic of Uzbekistan recognizes the critical importance of developing close, cooperative ties with its neighbors and promoting efforts at regional cooperation. Article 2.2 Combating Transnational Threats to Security stupsertod stup8site